MCT Schoolhouse Trail

The MCT Schoolhouse Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and suburban convenience, winding through old-growth forests, open fields, and past Collinsville neighborhoods. You'll enjoy a smooth, paved surface throughout, making for an easy walk, with the highlight being the scenic views and bird-watching opportunities around Horseshoe Lake State Park. It's a fantastic option for a leisurely day out, providing a diverse landscape without the rugged terrain of traditional trails.

This moderate 8.4-mile (13.5 km) hike, with a negligible 35 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 23 minutes to complete. The trail is part of the extensive Madison County Transit (MCT) Trails network, offering convenient amenities like rest stops and parking at various points. Its flat, paved nature makes it highly accessible for families, beginner hikers, or anyone seeking a less strenuous experience.

As a rail-trail conversion, the MCT Schoolhouse Trail follows an old railroad corridor, contributing to its flat profile and easy navigation. It connects seamlessly with other MCT trails, like the Goshen Trail and Nature Trail, allowing for longer excursions. The area around Horseshoe Lake is particularly rich in wildlife, with nearly 300 bird species recorded, making it a prime spot for wildlife spotting along the route.